In recent times the western world has undergone a transportation change. Before the car was transport of choice but recently however the use of push bikes has become increasingly popular. Perhaps the trend can be put down to 'green' thinking, or maybe just the prices of gas are starting to get to people. No matter what has caused it, the fact is there are now more cyclists on the road than in a long while. Maybe you have considered buying a bike? If you have been thinking about using a bike as your main mode of transportation, or just thinking about getting one for fun, there are a few things you need to think about.
The brakes on your bike are of utmost importance. Brakes are very important on a bike, you need to understand how they work and what type you will most likely need for your bike. If you are choosing a bicycle for sporadic hobby riding, you can get by with the brakes that are little more than pads that squeeze your tires to keep them from moving. If you decide you want your bike for more off-roading adventures, you need a different kind of braking system that can keep up with that particular style. For such cycling you should look to disc brakes, these are located within the wheel itself and are less likely to be weakened over time or worse, fail.
Are you going to need to accommodate extra accessories? If you are try this using your bicycle as your primary form of transportation you might want to consider whether you will need things like baskets to help you transport goods. Will you be travelling with a child? If this is the case, you must choose a bike that can support a child's seat. Do you think you'll ever tow anything behind the bike? Choose a bike that can support the weight of a trailer, if this is something you’ll do.
You also need to acquire some safety gear. Bicycle helmets have come a long way since they were first introduced. They are now designed to offer better protection while looking a bit better, as well. It is important that you never ride your bicycle without also wearing your helmet. Sometimes that fraction of padding really can save your life!
It wouldn't hurt to invest in some knee pads and elbow pads, as well as wrist and ankle guards if you plan to do some off-roading. Another good idea is to buy some pants clips if you are going to be riding your bike as your primary form of transportation. These are clips that keep your pants legs up and out of the way of your gears and chain.
When you get a bike your main goal should be to find one that physically suits you. If you intend to use your bike a lot, perhaps as your main method of transport, it is important you keep this in mind. Comfort and saftey are the two most important aspects of riding a bike.